Following a 20-13 win at Soldier Field against the Miami Dolphins in the preseason opener, there is a lot to be excited about in The Windy City. In his preseason rookie debut, Justin Fields showcased his elite athleticism and 4.4 speed. Rushing for one touchdown and throwing for another, Fields gave NFL fans a glimpse of his rare talent at the QB position. Making a few nice throws on the run across his body, Fields showed he can be a very serious threat to an NFL defense once he gets out of the pocket.
Although it is only the preseason, seeing Justin Fields’ poise, pocket presence, and athletic ability was really exciting for Bears fans. Other than Lamar Jackson and maybe Kyler Murray, I don’t think there is a faster QB in the NFL. Whenever Fields does take over for Andy Dalton as the Bears starter, Chicago will have one of the NFL’s most athletic quarterbacks.
Along with Fields, rookie RB Khalil Herbert had a strong day rushing the football. Carrying the football six times for 38 yards, Herbert averaged 6.2 YPC (yards per carry). A sixth-round pick out of Virginia Tech, Herbert possesses the size, speed, and 3down ability that Matt Nagy likes. Handling some kick return duties during his college days at VA Tech, Herbert’s roster flexibility could help him earn a spot on the Bears 53 man roster.
On defense, a lot of players got some quality preseason reps. Alec Ogletree continued his push toward the 53 man roster, making four tackles, one TFL, and a pass deflection. Chicago’s other veteran offseason addition at LB, Christian Jones also played well, making four tackles. At nickel cornerback, Duke Shelley also had a solid game. Making six tackles and a pass deflection, Shelley is the only nickel CB with starting experience on the Bears roster. If he continues to make plays in coverage, Shelley should end up starting for the Bears week 1 in the slot.
Hoping to earn reps as rotational edge rushers, Trevis Gipson and Charles Snowden both made a few nice plays. Adding his first career sack, Snowden could find a spot on the 53 man roster as a rotational edge rusher by the 2022 season. A UDFA (undrafted free agent) out of Virginia, Snowden’s 2021 draft stock plummeted after a season-ending ankle injury. Standing at 6’7 with an 82 1/4 inch wingspan, Snowden possesses incredible length at the OLB position.
Overall, Saturday’s preseason opener left a lot to be excited about. Justin Fields was impressive, and this defense seems to be moving along well under Sean Desai. Despite all of my excitement, I think that Ryan Pace should consider making a few additions to the Bears roster.
Here are three players I think Ryan Pace should consider signing this week in free agency.